Friday, March 27th, 2020
Hello Friends and Family:
Because COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the country and the serious risk this poses to residents and staff, Knollwood’s Management continues to work with our Medical Director, nurses and staff to sustain and increase mitigation procedures, based on direction from the CDC and the Washington, D.C. Department of Health to protect Knollwood.
The health, welfare, and safety of residents and staff remain our number one priority during COVID-19. We must remain vigilant due to the increasing presence of the virus in the D.C. metropolitan area. In accordance with a directive from Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser to minimize non-essential movement and remain at home, on Friday, March 27, 2020, we are asking all residents to avoid leaving the Knollwood grounds. Should residents leave the Knollwood grounds, to re-enter, they must follow the health screenings required of our staff. Residents who pass the screening will self-isolate and monitor their health for 14 days. Residents that do not pass the health screening and/or display fever or symptoms consistent with respiratory illness, will be sent out to receive immediate medical attention. Note, there are exceptions to residents who will leave the Knollwood grounds for necessary health care appointments.
Additionally, in accordance with recommended government guidelines to increase protection of our residents, guests and non-cleared healthcare professionals will not be allowed onto the Knollwood property. There are exceptions that will be allowed.
Due to these changes, Knollwood staff is supporting residents with grocery, pharmacy, postal pick up and other essential services. Families and friends are using Skype and FaceTime sessions, and staff is supporting residents who need access to this technology. We are connecting virtually – and safely – until medical guidance advises us to lift these restrictions.
Thank you for understanding these new procedures. These additional layers of protection are the most responsible procedures to follow at this time to ensure Knollwood is implementing the highest level of prevention methods advised. Should you have questions, please call us at (202) 541-0105.
Paul Bricker
Chief Operating Officer
Sunday, March 15th, 2020
Friends and Family of Knollwood,
Please be advised that out of an abundance of caution associated with the threat the COVID-19 virus poses to older Americans, we are restricting all access to Knollwood, effective midnight on Saturday, March 14th, for the next 30 days, and will reevaluate at that point. We have further put in place increased restrictions within our community to protect our most vulnerable residents. These restrictions include family, friends, guests, and contractors. Visitor exceptions will be made for end of life/hospice visits with screening caveats.
We are communicating frequently with our residents. If you have questions about our policy, please call us at (202) 541-0105.
We are taking every precaution to protect our vulnerable residents from this virus. Thank you for your understanding.
Paul Bricker
Chief Operating Officer